Lord Moran (1882–1977)

Good book; a fast read, only 202 pages. Lord Moran does make convincing arguments. However, most his conclusions are based on his personal observations in the two German wars as he calls them. There does not seem to be much science behind his work, just his rational deductions as a medical doctor. Also, many times he inserts generalizations about the English, how they are different from other 'races' including the folks from Canada and Australia. On several occasions he spends time in the narative producing notations from his personal diary during WWI. These I did find interesting, but sometimes was not sure how this stuff tied into the study of fear/courage in combat soldiers.

I do not intend to over pan the work. I did find it interesting and thought provoking. This book is recommended to anyone interested the pyschological aspects of men in war and how they come to deal with the stress, fear and even the boredom. I will look for the review of others to see what their thoughts are. 38 members show as having this book in their library. Come on...let's see some other comments, not just mine.… (plus d'informations)

I read this book just after I completed Churchill's 6 volume WWII epic, so I might be more favourable disposed to provide a more positive review than someone who picked up this book, and read it cold. This is an eye opening, brutally honest, and at times touching portrait of a decline of an icon, written by someone who obviously liked him very much, and stood by him until the end. Reading the Second World War, one gets a sense of the man behind the boldness and bluster, this book confirms it with all his charms and warts. Moran often seeks out other contemporaries' opinions of Churchill, both politically, and as a man, and in particular his record during wartime. At the same time, a personal side of Churchill is presented,including his ego, his fears, and his despair at being no longer needed.

I would not recommend this book as a first book to read about Churchill, but for someone who has a background and would like more exposure to the man, I think it is a definite read.… (plus d'informations)